As speculation intensifies regarding Pep Guardiola’s potential departure from Manchester City this summer, the debate over his standing among managerial greats has been reignited. Tony Pulis argues that while the Spaniard’s tactical influence is peerless, he remains second to Sir Alex Ferguson due to the sheer scale of the Scotsman's rebuilding job.
Phil Parkinson has warned Wrexham's promotion rivals that the Red Dragons are ready to fight until the final whistle in their quest for a Premier League place. After a vital victory over Stoke City, the Welsh side have moved within touching distance of the play-off positions.
U.S. men's national team striker Patrick Agyemang will miss the World Cup after suffering an Achilles injury, Derby County confirmed. The injury occurred on Monday when the forward was stretchered off against Stoke City.
U.S. international forward Patrick Agyemang was taken off in a stretcher during Derby's match against Stoke in the 41st minute. Agyemang was jumping in the air for a challenge and landed awkwardly, the club said, and was replaced by Jadon Banel. While the extent of the injury has not been confirmed, the timing raises concerns for Agyemang's World Cup hopes.
Former Premier League striker Dave Kitson has revealed he was the 'Secret Footballer', a pseudonym he used to pen articles and books during his playing career without revealing his identity. The series focused on what goes on behind the scenes in elite-level football, with topics ranging from matchdays to transfers and contracts. Many punters attempted to unmask the author while he was still playing, but Kitson has now confirmed he was behind the phenomenon.
Pep Guardiola sees the Stoke City model being followed "more and more" in the Premier League, as several teams are picking up Tony Pulis' old tactics. The Manchester City boss believes the English top-flight has fallen in love again with Pulis-style football, where long throws and set-piece chaos decide games more than skill or possession. However, the Catalan coach remains defiant and claims that he will not change his philosophy. Instead, he vowed to nullify that threat using his own methods, which will involve adopting an "aggressive response".
Ryan Longman failed to convert an easy chance as Wrexham suffered yet another Championship defeat at the hands of high-flying Stoke City. The loss comes as yet another setback for Ryan Reyndols and Rob Mac's side, who continue to remain in the bottom half of the league table. Sorba Thomas scored a stunning goal for the hosts in the 36th minute to seal a key win for his side.